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AIRF RCE November 29, 2018 ‘ News 3 It will change the way that we conduct ISR and strike missions and overcomes one of air power’s weaknesses – persistence. – AVM Catherine Roberts Head Aerospace Systems Division A scale model of the General Atomics MQ-9 on display at RAAF Base Edinburgh. Photo: CPL Craig Barrett Armed MQ-9 to give us a fifth-generation edge Ready to protect CPL Bill Solomou AIR FORCE’s Int e l l igenc e , Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) capability is set to gain a significant boost after the government unveiled plans to acquire Australia’s first armed remotely piloted aircraft. Defence Minister Christopher Pyne announced the government had selected the General Atomics MQ-9 aircraft as the system that best met the capability requirements for Australia. Mr Pyne said between 12 and 16 armed medium-altitude, long-endurance unmanned aircraft were planned to be in operation from 2020. Head Aerospace Systems Division AVM Catherine Roberts said the remotely piloted MQ-9 capability moved Air Force further toward being a fifth-generation Air Force. “The MQ-9 is a catalyst to transform our support for our Army and Naval capabilities,” AVM Roberts said. “It will change the way that we conduct ISR and strike missions and overcomes one of air power’s weaknesses – persistence. “We look forward to working further with the United States Air Force, General Atomics and Team Reaper on making this capability a reality.” Project AIR 7003 was established to procure the MQ-9 aircraft. Mr Pyne said the aircraft could be integrated within the ADF and would be fully interoperable with our allies. “These new aircraft will provide enhanced firepower and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance support to a range of missions,” Mr Pyne said. He said the aircraft would be used to watch and protect ADF and coalition land forces, and provide reconnaissance support for search and rescue, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations. “Remotely-piloted aircraft allow military commanders to make more informed decisions faster while providing the option to conduct strike and reconnaissance operations without risking the safety of aircrew,” he said. “The aircraft will be operated under the same laws of armed conflict, international human rights law and rules of engagement as manned aircraft.” Mr Pyne made the announce- ment at RAAF Base Edinburgh on November 16. Do you want a PHAT Tax Return? DEFENCE FORCE TAX SPECIALISTS We have extensive experience across all ranks and specialities, including: • Investment properties • Members who have served overseas • Late lodgement of tax returns • Members who have been medically discharged Maximum returns - We know all the specific deductions, so you get a great tax return every year Phone consultations - All tax returns are completed over the phone, so you don’t have to leave your base, ship or assignment Vice President international strategic development General Atomics Joe Song, Head of Aerospace Systems Division AVM Catherine Roberts, Defence Minister Christopher Pyne and Senator for South Australia Lucy Gichuhi at the MQ-9 announcement at RAAF Base Edinburgh. Photo: CPL Craig Barrett 1300 763 575 or visit us online at www.phatreturns.com.au